Three Point Polar Alignment in NINA
Three point polar alignment uses Plate solving to accurately polar align your equatorial mount. Click here to download the NINA software and here to download plate solving software.
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Install the TPPA plug in
In the Plug in tab, select Three Point Polar Alignment and install. You may need to restart the program afterwards. (You may also get an issue where it does not install. In some instances, I have had use a VPN)
Set Options
Make sure your scope is in focus and keep it in the home position. Select "Direction East" as "ON". (Provided there is no obstruction to the sky on the east,. If there is, then set to "Direction West") Also select "Start from current position" as "ON". The other settings can be kept at default (See image)
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Measurement Points
After pressing play in the top right hand corner, NINA will take 3 measurement points via plate solving.
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Alignment error results
Once NINA has completed the 3 measurement points, it will provide you with the alignment errors in both Azimuth and Altitude. It will then show you the total error.
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Alt/Az Adjustments
Using the Altitude and Azimuth knobs on your EQ mount, bring the error down to as close to 00:00:00 as you can. NINA will continue to capture and plate solve so the error is updated during the process.
For a more precise polar alignment. Repeat the TPPA 2-3 times and get as close to 00:00:00 as possible
